32. Axel

In a quiet evening together, Axel fidgets with music while Katya studies. Their banter turns to the scar on Katya’s arm and Axel’s guilt over her injury and its consequences for his brothers under their father’s control. Shifting to research, Axel tentatively suggests the Fae were not only power Sources but also created as a deliberate check on Legacy power to preserve balance. Katya takes the idea seriously, and they wonder if the Fates intervened when balance tipped and whether things were meant to be different.

The discussion leads to the mirror gates. Remembering Theon’s sighting of Scarlett, they consider whether contact through a mirror is possible. Axel admits the family mirror is in Valter’s private Underground study and is unsure whether Valter understands its nature. They speculate about other gates but have no leads.

Turning personal, they talk about freedoms and control in Devram. Axel confesses ongoing guilt about sharing a bed and reveals his struggle with blood addiction and the risk of turning into Night Children if he loses control. He warns Katya he might be dangerous to her, but Katya counters that he protects her in ways the outside world never has, asserting her right to choose.

Katya initiates intimacy, demanding honesty about the risks and asserting her agency. Axel admits his powerful draw to her yet fears harming her. They choose each other, proceeding with clear consent. Their lovemaking is tender and affirming, with Axel attentive to Katya’s pleasure and control.

Afterward, Katya quietly reveals she has never been allowed to finish before, underscoring past exploitation. As she falls asleep, Axel reflects on their connection and decides that trying to contact Scarlett through the mirror may be worth the risk if it can help preserve what they have and illuminate the truth behind balance, Fae purpose, and Legacy power.